Emalahleni Residents Sign Contracts for UIF Skills Programme

Residents of Emalahleni received a major employment and skills development boost on Wednesday as successful applicants began signing contracts for the UIF Labour Activation Programme at Cacadu Town Hall.

The programme is being implemented by the Department of Employment and Labour in partnership with the Chris Hani Development Agency and BCE Institute of Learning. The official launch took place at Cacadu Stadium.

The initiative is aimed at unemployed people between the ages of 18 and 59, with 70% of opportunities allocated to individuals aged 36 to 59 and the remaining 30% reserved for youth aged 18 to 35 who are registered on the UIF programme.

Participants will receive training and practical work experience in several fields, while also earning monthly stipends.

Those enrolled in artisan training will receive a monthly stipend of R3,500 for a period of three years. Learnership participants will receive R3,000 per month for 12 months, while those participating in skills development programmes will receive R2,000 per month for between three and six months.

According to organisers, all participants who successfully complete their training will receive accredited certificates, with the possibility of job placement opportunities after completion.

Successful applicants gathered on Wednesday to sign contracts linked to their chosen training fields and are expected to report for duty on 15 June 2026.

Among those attending the contract signing were Emalahleni Local Municipality Mayor Councillor Nontombizanele Koni, ward councillors, representatives from the Chris Hani Development Agency, BCE Institute of Learning, and municipal management officials.

The Labour Activation Programme forms part of ongoing efforts to tackle unemployment by equipping residents with practical skills and qualifications that can improve their chances of finding work.